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Intel to double SSD capacity

Roadmap brought forward by a quarter

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Intel is expected to bring forward the projected doubling of its SSD capacities to as early as next month.

The current X18-M and X25-M solid-state drives (SSDs) use a 50nm process and have 80GB and 160GB capacities with 2-bit multi-level cell (MLC) technology. A single level cell (SLC) X25-E has faster I/O rates and comes in 32GB and 64GB capacities.

But reports say that, as indicated in January, Intel will move to a smaller 34nm process and double the capacities with the 1.8-inch form factor X18-M and 2.5-inch form factor X25-M (M meaning Mainstream) moving to 160GB and 320GB capacities. The X25-E (E meaning Extreme) will grow to 64GB and 128GB capacities.

Back in 2008 when Intel first launched its SSD range it said it could hit a 256GB capacity this year. That looks to be exceeded.

The upgrades, if they happen, should be reflected by Intel's SSD OEMs, and resellers in their products, meaning Dell/EqualLogic, Hitachi GST, Infortrend, Pillar Data, Panasas and reseller Kingston Technology. There's no indication of what will happen to pricing. ®